More about us...
Kei-Rin is named after a powerful unicorn, possessing magical powers and great intelligence.  It has been our kennel name for about 25 years!  The majority of our spaniels are named after "wild west" characters, or western themes.  This is in homage to the American roots our breed was built upon.  The majority of our setters are named after songs.  English setters are entertainers by nature, so it only seems fitting...

How we got started....

Kei-Rin Kennel was started in the early 80's when Pamela Kozak decided she wanted a versatile dog she could both show and hunt with. Her husband Randy, introduced her to the American Water Spaniel; a happy, curly, brown wiggle, of which his family had been breeding for decades. Now four generations strong, the Kozak family and American Water Spaniels seem like a perfect fit. By 1990, their daughter Kayla was showing dogs and getting involved with the breedings. English Setters entered the scene in 1996, when Kayla acquired "Flo" as her first junior showmanship dog. Within five years, the Kozaks had fallen deeply in love with the breed. Kei-Rin produced their first litter of setters in 2001.  Today, in 2010, Kei-Rin kennel focuses on breeding only the best of both breeds.  Juggling two breeding programs can be very time-constraining, so it isn't uncommon for Kei-Rin to only produce one to two litters a year.

About our dogs...

All of our potential breeding dogs are screened for inheritable conditions, most notably hip dysplasia. Each breed has their own set of important issues.  The setters are screened against deafness, hip and elbow dysplasia, and hypothyroidism. The spaniels are screened against hip dysplasia, cardiac murmurs, and eye abnormalities.  All respectable breeders will run the same tests on their breeding stock.  When looking for a puppy, make sure you know you are getting a well-bred dog with a health guarantee.  Many people don't realize that puppy mills sell their dogs to pet shops, so it is important to realize that paying a lot for your dog is not a guarantee of health or genetic quality.

Our puppies sell for $800-$1000, depending on a variety of factors.  You most certainly can find a cheaper dog somewhere else if that is what you are looking for.  We raise each litter in the bedroom and ensure that they are very well socialized before they leave our home.  Because of our high standards, we only have time to raise around 2 litters a year.  There are breeders out there with over 50 brood bitches at any time.  To us, this isn't a breeder, but a glorified puppy mill.  We welcome visitors at any time, although a heads up is always appreciated!

Like other respectable breeders, we sometimes try to place our retired show dogs and breeding dogs in forever homes.  We usually do not ask for money for these adults as it is very rewarding to see them find great families where they can relax and enjoy their retirement.

AKC Breed Standards
American Water Spaniels
English Setters

More links to come!!